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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: xsphat on Thu, 20 September 2007, 12:34:17

Title: "Hot" question for keyboard swingers ...
Post by: xsphat on Thu, 20 September 2007, 12:34:17

I use an adaptor to connect my PS/2 keyboards to my USB hub. Does this make these keyboards hot swappable?

Title: "Hot" question for keyboard swingers ...
Post by: iMav on Thu, 20 September 2007, 12:54:27

In a word . . .

YES

Title: "Hot" question for keyboard swingers ...
Post by: xsphat on Thu, 20 September 2007, 18:32:29

Even the battleship Model M?

Title: "Hot" question for keyboard swingers ...
Post by: iMav on Thu, 20 September 2007, 22:21:08

Quote from: xsphat

Even the battleship Model M?

Of course.

Title: "Hot" question for keyboard swingers ...
Post by: xsphat on Thu, 20 September 2007, 22:55:24

Why is it that the PS/2 connections aren't? I don't get it. I read this somewhere.

Title: "Hot" question for keyboard swingers ...
Post by: iMav on Fri, 21 September 2007, 00:05:06

Quote from: xsphat

Why is it that the PS/2 connections aren't? I don't get it. I read this somewhere.

There are two issues with hot-swapping PS/2 devices...

First, there is the potential to damage your motherboard.  The PS/2 ports provide direct connectivity to the microcontroller on the motherboard.  The initial connection can provide a momentary overcurrent state which could fry the circuitry in your keyboard, the motherboard, or both.  

Second, the port is simply not designed for plug and play.  So your OS is not going to be aware of new devices on the PS/2 ports.  If you plug in a new device on your PS/2 port, it will only work if it is supported by the currently installed driver for that port.  (assuming you didn't fry something in the process, that is.  ;)

Title: "Hot" question for keyboard swingers ...
Post by: xsphat on Fri, 21 September 2007, 00:43:32

Good to know, thanks.